SELECTION OF TRADITIONAL OILS

The selection of oil is key for optimal outcome of the abhyanga. This selection is done based on the
constitution and/or specific condition. In a healthy person oil is selected purely based on constitution
whereas in specific disease conditions oil is selected according to the dosha imbalance at that point of
time.
AYURVEDIC OILS – INFORMATION FROM CLASSICAL AYURVEDIC LITERATURE

Nasyam (Nasal application)

Back Vasti (Kadee vasti)
Pichu (Soaked cotton)
Dosha pacification

Special Classical
Local Application

Properties
Head Massage
Body Massage

Indications
Face Massage
Shirodhara

Bandage

VPK Rejuvenating,
Anu Thailam √ Respiratory Allergies
Strengthening
Balaswagandhadi VP Nourishing,
√ √ √ √ √ √ √ Tissue building
Thailam Strengthening
Dhanwantharam V Rejuvenating, Uterine & Post-natal
√ √ √ √ √ √ √ √
Thailam Uterine issues care
VK Itchy skin, Improves
Eladi Keram √ √ √ √ Skin Cleanser
complexion
Dharani Oil K
(Abhyanga oil for √ √ √ √ Warm, Cleansing Cleanses the system
Kapha)
VPK Total Hair Care, Hair fall, Dandruff,
Kesini Hair Oil √
Hair Nourishing Graying
Ksheerabala VP Nervine tonic, Numbness, Burning,
√ √ √ √ √ √
Thailam Soothner Tremors
Mahachandanadi P Cooling, Relaxing, Insomnia, Stress,
√ √ √ √ √
Thailam Soothening Anxiety
Mahanarayana V In degenerative Arthritis, Spondylitis,
√ √ √ √ √
Thailam conditions Degenerative conditions
VP Fungal infections, Cuts,
Murivenna √ √ √ √ √ For all injuries
Fracture
VK Pain reliever,
Myaxyl Oil √ √ Pain reliever
Muscle relaxant
P Total hair care & Hair fall, premature
Neelibringadi Oil √
cooling for eyes graying, split ends
 VP Moisturizing, Cracked feet, Dry skin,
Pinda Thailam √ √ √
Joint pains Burning
Tejas Oil P
(Abhyanga oil for √ √ √ √ Pitta conditions Cooling, For burning
Pitta)
V Vata issues below
Sahacharadi
√ √ √ √ waist, Sciatica, Varicose vein, Sciatica
Thailam
Arthritis
Pavan Oil V
(Abhyanga oil for √ √ √ √ √ √ √ Vata conditions Dryness
Vata)
V Itchy & flaky skin,
Winsoria Oil √ √ √ Skin soother
dandruff, dry skin
Anu Thailam
The recipe with 28 herbs in a base of Sesame oil is referred in the Ashtanga Samgraham, a classical text
dated about 2000 years ago. The verse insists that this composition is considered the supreme in its
benefits among other errhines. The herbs used for the preparation include Himalayan Cedar,
Sandalwood, Indian Sarasaparilla, Vetiver, Asparagus, Cinnamon, Liquorice and Lotus petals.

One to two drops of this oil should be applied on each nostril every morning. Sit comfortably with the
head slightly tilted back and place the droplet in the nostril. Inhale deeply. Stay for a minute or two.
Regular use of this oil imparts a beautiful and lustrous skin, prevents respiratory allergies, blocked
sinuses. The virtues Anu thailam are extolled in the verse from Ashtanga Hrdayam.

Dhanwantharam thailam
Applicable for all constitutions, more so for the Vata constitution. Dhanwantharam thailam is made
using 46 herbs in sesame oil, including Himalayan Cedar, Sandalwood, Winter Cherry, Liqorice,
Asparagus, Cardamom, Cinnamon, Indian Gooseberry and others. The oil is well known to promote
general health. This recipe is prescribed for people of all ages and even for pregnant women and new
mothers!
The recipe is indicated for strengthening, relaxing the muscles and reduce anxiety. One interesting
feature of this recipe is its effect on restoring uterine health. The ingredients in the composition have
excellent anti ageing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti stress properties.

Traditionally, this recipe has been used to improve the flexibility of the body. Being an effective
rejuvenator and that which strengthens the body this oil is commonly used for various types of regular
applications such as Shrodhara, Shiroabhyangam, Pizhichil and Mukha Abhyangam

Balaswagandhadi thailam
Balaswagandhadi thailam is predominantly used to address enhanced Vata. This oil is made up of 20
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herbs including Licorice, Cedrus Deodar, Lotus petals, Lily tubers, Indian Ginseng, Sandalwood, Indian
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Sarsaparilla, Vetiver, Turmeric and others. Carefully prepared in a base of sesame oil, this recipe an
excellent nourisher for body and mind.

The recipe is advised for its calming effects on the stressed mind, embellish the body to regain strength,
Vata disorders loosely translated as neurological and painful conditions. Its nourishing effects are highly
acclaimed. This quality of Balaswagandhadi thailam makes it a preferred external application for breast
enhancement. Shirodhara, Shiroabhyandam, Pizhichil and Mukhabyangam are other common
applications Balaswagandhadi thailam is recommended.

Ksheerabala thailam
The oil is prepared from a single herb Sida cordifolia, commonly known as Country Mallow. Sida, known
as Bala in Ayurveda is cooling, strengthening and considered an aphrodisiac. Enhancement of
complexion and balancing the three doshas are the properties of this herb. This herb is known for its
properties of nourishing tissues, improving vitality and longevity.

The recipe is made by boiling the herb decoction and paste with sesame oil and an equal quantity of
milk to derive the Ksheerabala taila. The oil is a rejuvenator, imparts comfort to the sensory organs,
enlivens and nourishes the body. Improves and clears the voice. Dispels the disorders of semen and
blood. A favourite recipe for Abhyanga, shirodhara, shiroabhyanga, pizhichil and mukha abhyanga.

Mahachandhanadi Thailam
Water Hissop, Asparagus, Aloe Vera, Sugarcane, Rose Petals, Tubers of Lily, Petals, tubers and stem of
Lotus, the buds of the Banyan, Sacred Fig, Common Fig and Indian Laurel are some of the 41 herbs used
in the preparation of this exotic oil. The preparation of this recipe begins with the herbs processed in
fresh tender coconut water and cow’s milk. The concentrate is then processed further in Sesame oil to
bring out the amazing benefits of this oil. A close relative of the Chandanadhi tailiam, the
Mahachandhanadi thailam derives its Suffix “Maha” , meaning “The Great”, to denote the superiority
over its cousin. Recipes with the suffix “Maha” denote that this is derived from exotic and rare herbs
which deliver a higher benefit from the more commonly used oils.
Used for Abhyanga, Shirodhara and Shiroabhyanga this oil is Pitta alleviating. A therapy for intense
stress demonstrated as a burning sensation in the body and a heavy head. With its extended herb list
this preparation is the choice for extreme stress. A relevant addition to its list of benefits includes its
effect on calming the uterus.

Pinda Thailam
Indian Madder, Bees wax, resin of Indian Copal Tree and Indian Sarsaparilla are herbs that constitute the
Pinda thailam. The thailam is prepared with sesame oil as the base. Commonly used to alleviate Vata
and Pitta conditions. This is an excellent moisturizer and helps in preventing cracked and chaffed skin
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arising out of excessive dryness. As an external application, Pinda thailam finds use in painful conditions
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of arthritis and gout. A favorite recipe for Abhyanga and pizhichil. Its content of Bee’s wax dictates its
use only on the body.

Pavan Oil ( for Vata )

A pleasantly fragrant oil made up of 20 herbs including Licorice, Cedrus Deodar, Lotus petals, Lily tubers,
Indian Ginseng, Sandalwood, Indian Sarsaparilla, Vetiver, Turmeric and others. Carefully prepared in a
base of sesame oil, this recipe an excellent nourisher for body and mind.

The recipe is adviced for its calming effects on the stressed mind, embellish the body to regain strength,
Vata disorders loosely translated as neurological and painful conditions. Its nourishing effects are highly
acclaimed. Made in a base of Olive oil this recipe is refreshingly light. Shirodhara, Shiroabhyandam,
Pizhichil and Mukhabyangam are other common applications

Tejas Oil (for Pitta)

A light and aromatic oil prepared with Olive oil, Tejas thailam contains Indian Madder, Bees wax, resin of
Indian Copal Tree and Indian Sarsaparilla. This recipe is highly recommended to soothe your senses and
provide silken moisturization for estreme dry skin. A favourite recipe for Abhyanga and pizhichil. Its
content of Beeswas dictates its use only on the body.

Dharani (for Kapha )

A variant of a classical recipe, this oil is made in a base of olive oil. Dried ginger, Garlic, mustard, Cedrus
deodar, Galanga, leaves of moringa and costus are some of the 10 herbs processed in the juice of
tamarind leaves and sesame oil. This oil is best for aches and pains with heaviness and swelling. Oleation
opens the pores in the skin and allow better circulation leaving you light, energized and refreshed. The
recipe is used mainly to alleviate Kapha and Vata. Abhayanga and Pizhichil are the preferred applications
of Dharani oil.

Myaxyl Oil
A fast acting proprietary recipe ideal for anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic applications.
Myaxyl calms and relieves musculo-skeletal spasms and stimulates blood circulation to the affected
parts. It is also works to relieve numbness. Hygrophila, Galanga, Sandalwood, Cedrus deodar, Lemon
grass, Sesame Oil, Eucalyptus oil constitute its properties in reducing inflammation and pain.
Apply liberally by gentle strokes on the affected part and leave it on.

Mahanarayana thailam
Mahanarayana thailam is predominantly used to address enhanced Vata. This oil is made up of more
than 25 herbs including Licorice, Himalayan Cedar, Indian Ginseng and others. Carefully prepared in a
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base of sesame oil, this recipe an excellent nourisher for body, especially the musculoskeletal tissues.
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The recipe is adviced for its strengthening effects on the degenerated tissues, embellish the body to
regain strength, Vata disorders including painful Osteo-arthritic conditions. Its nourishing effects are
highly acclaimed. This quality of Mahanarayana thailam makes it a preferred external application for
degenerative arthritis. Abhyangam, Pizhichil, Pichu and Kadeevasthy are other common applications
Mahanarayana thailam is recommended.

Sahacharadi thailam
Applicable for all painful conditions, more so for the conditions affected below waist area. Sahacharadi
thailam is made using 3 herbs in sesame oil- Himalayan Cedar, Strobilanthus and Dried Ginger. The
recipe is indicated for painful conditions including arthritis, back pain, sciatica, varicose veins and other
musculoskeletal disorders. One interesting feature of this recipe is its special effect on condition
affecting the lower extremities. The ingredients in the composition have excellent anti inflammatory and
toning properties. This oil is commonly used for various types of regular applications such as
Abhyangam, Kadeevasthy, Pichu and Pizhichil

Murivenna
Aloe vera, Asparagus, Moringa oleifera, Pongamia glabra are the master herbs that constitute the
Murivenna oil. The oil is prepared with coconut oil as the base. Commonly used to manage all injury
related conditions. Promotes healing in fractures, Spains and dislocations, heals wounds, reduces
edema, relieves pain and inflammations due to injury and restores mobility to joints. It is also a well
known anti-fungal application effective in various fungal infections including ringworm, Candida and
fungal infection on nails. This oil can be used for various types of regular applications such as
Abhyangam, Kadeevasthy, Pichu, Bandage, local applications.

Eladi Keram
Eladi Keram is predominantly used to address enhanced Vata and Kapha. This oil is made up of 28 herbs
as per the classical Ayurveda text- Sahasrayogam. Some of the herbs contained in this oil are Cardamom,
Shallaki, Jadamansi, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Pearl Oyster, Himalayan Cedar, Gulgulu and others. Carefully
prepared in a base of coconut oil, this recipe an excellent external application for Kapha associated
constitutions and conditions. The recipe is well-known for its effects on skin health. Sahasrayogam says-

Edadiko vatakaphou1 visham2 cha viniyacchati

Varnaprasadanaha3 kandoo4 pidaka5 koda6 nasahanaha (Sahasrayogam, Tailayoga: 14)

1. Pacifies Vata and Kapha

2. Detoxification of skin
3. Improves complexion, removes dark shades and pigmentation
4. Good for itchy skin lesions
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5. Helps in skin eruptions

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6. Effective in round skin patches as in Ringworm

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Abhyangam, Shiroabhyandam, Lepam and Mukhabyangam are the common applications of Eladi Keram

Neelibringadi Oil
A classical composition from Sahasrayoga, this oil contains the goodness of Bringaraj (Eclipta alba),
Indian Goosberry, Licorice and Neeli among others. Extracted in a base of Sesame oil, this-
1. Enhances the hair growth
2. Nourishes hair root and scalp
3. Maintains natural color of hair.
4. Prevents and treats split hair leaving the hair healthy and smooth.
5. By its composition cooling herbs this oil calms down the mind and induces relaxation and sound
sleep.

Apply 5 – 10 ml of this oil on the scalp and leave it for at least 30 minutes before wash off.

Winsoria Oil
A proprietary composition from the house of Kerala Ayurveda, this oil is made up of Sweta Kudaja (
Wrightia tinctoria) and other herbs known for skin health. A very effective proprietary recipe for
Psoriasis, exfoliating skin conditions and dandruff. Winsoria reduces the itching and relieves the skin
flaking. Apply liberally by gentle strokes on the affected skin area and leave it on. In the case of dandruff
apply over scalp and leave it on for at least 20 to 30 minutes before washing it off.

Kesini hair oil

A proprietary composition from the house of Kerala Ayurveda, this oil contains the goodness of Conch
Shells, Hibiscus, Indian Gooseberry, Indigo and water Hissop among others. Extracted in a base of freshly
pressed Coconut oil and Castor oil, this nourishes hair root and scalp, maintains natural color and
texture of hair. Prevents and treats dandruff leaving the hair healthy and smooth.
By its composition this recipe soothes the nerves and induces sound sleep.

Apply 5 – 10 ml of this oil on the scalp and leave it for at least 30 minutes before wash off.

Please note: The information provided herein is for educational purposes and is not intended to prescribe, treat or diagnose, or
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provide medical advice for any treatment or disease. See a qualified medical doctor for any health problem. If you decide to try
any of the following practices or procedures, you are responsible for the outcome.

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